General Headquarters — Columbus, Ohio

For Immediate Release: June 7, 2005
Contact: OSHP - Lt. Rick Zwayer or Sgt. Jon Gray (614) 752-2792
American Motorcyclist Association - Tom Lindsay (614) 856-1900 ext. 1357

Remember “T-CLOCK” for motorcycle safety pre-ride check

The OSHP, AMA, and Ohio Department of Public Safety’s Motorcycle Ohio office recommend riders follow the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s “T-CLOCK” pre-ride checklist to help make every ride safer:

T – Tires and Wheels: Check the tires and wheels, which are the most important part of the motorcycle. In making these inspections, be sure to check the tire air pressure, as well as the surface of the tires, looking for cuts or foreign objects in the rubber. On the wheels, look at the spokes, rims, bearings, and seals for bent or broken parts.
C – Controls: Check the controls. Although the cables, levers, hoses, and throttle are strong and rarely break, check for anything unusual in their operation.
L – Lights: Check the lights, including brake lights, headlights, and turn signals to ensure everything is in working order. In checking the lights, pay close attention to the battery strength, lenses, reflectors, and wiring to be sure all parts are secure and operational. Also take time to check the horn and properly adjust the mirrors.
O – Oil: Check the oil and fuel, and if the motorcycle is liquid-cooled, check the coolant levels. During these checks, ensure the levels are appropriate and there are no leaks in the lines, seals, and fittings.
C – Chassis: Check the chassis, including the frame, suspension, chain or belt, and fasteners. If your motorcycle has a chain-drive to the rear wheel, make sure the chain is properly tensioned and in good condition. Chains also require occasional cleaning and lubrication.
K – Kickstand: Check the sidestand and centerstand to make sure they fold up properly, and stay up. It is important to replace a retraction spring if it is weak, broken, or missing

The goal of Ride Smart. Drive Smart. is to help motorcyclists and other drivers share the road safely. Three key safety awareness themes to achieve this goal are:

1. Get Trained (including knowing proper safety gear to wear)/Get Licensed;
2. Stay Sober (incorporating the AMA’s national Ride Straight program); and
3. Other drivers, be aware by looking out for motorcyclists.
For more information on Ride Smart. Drive Smart. visit, http://statepatrol.ohio.gov/motorcycle.htm.

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Note to editors: For more information about the American Motorcyclist Association, visit www.AMADirectlink.com or call 1-800-AMA-JOIN. For more information on the Ohio Department of Public Safety’s Motorcycle Ohio training, visit www.motorcycle.ohio.gov.

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